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CDA and what is it
Colour dilution alopecia is a hereditary condition that impacts dogs' skin and fur, leading to uneven patches and a reduction in coat density.
Symptoms include hair loss or thinning, dry and flaky skin, pruritus, and frequent bacterial infections.
This condition is predominantly observed in dogs with blue or fawn coats, classified as "dilute" colours.
In terms of health implications, aside from the aesthetic concerns, a dog's overall health remains largely unaffected; however, if left untreated, the incessant itching, licking, and scratching can persist for up to 80% of their life, a situation that us as breeders find unacceptable.
Colour Dilution / D Lucas
Colour dilution in canines is a hereditary condition that results in a lighter appearance of the coat colour and may also contribute to hair loss and dermatological problems.
Colour dilution, often referred to as hypomelanism, occurs when the pigmentation in a dog's coat is less concentrated or altered due to the characteristics of the pigment-producing cells present in the skin.
We believe that CDA and colour dilution come hand in hand, there is very rarely one without the other.
Back to CDA
Colour dilution alopecia (CDA) is no longer a rare genetic disorder in Staffordshire bull terriers due to the poor and irresponsible breeding that has led to a very high number of Blue and Fawn SBT’s now affected by the gene.
Symptoms of CDA include irregular patches of hair loss, flaky or pruritic skin, sparsely furred ears and tails, and a coat that is thinner than normal.
While CDA can manifest in any breed with a diluted coat, it is particularly prevalent among blue Staffordshire Bull Terriers. Other breeds that may experience this condition include Bernese Mountain Dogs, Boston Terriers, and Chihuahuas, among others.
Due to the absence of available testing and the hereditary nature of this condition, it is advised that dogs diagnosed with Colour Dilution Alopecia (CDA), along with their parents and siblings, be excluded from breeding programs.
The management of this condition poses significant challenges, as initial symptoms may not manifest until approximately two years of age. By this time, the affected dog may have already produced offspring, inadvertently contributing to the spread of the disease.
Additionally, there exists a stigma surrounding CDA. Many breeders are reluctant to disclose any instances of CDA within their breeding lines, and some may continue to breed descendants of affected dogs, marketing puppies although the disease typically presents itself after the expiration of health guarantees, often around the two-year mark.
While dogs over three years of age with diluted coats are unlikely to develop CDA, they may still potentially act as carriers of the condition.
The aetiology of CDA remains poorly understood. Microscopic analysis of the hair from dilute-coated dogs shows that the pigment, melanin, forms large granules known as macromelanosomes, which are infrequently observed in deeply pigmented hair. In dilute individuals with seemingly normal coats, these macromelanosomes are dispersed and do not cause any alteration to the hair follicle. Conversely, dogs with CDA exhibit numerous large clusters of macromelanosomes that distort the hair follicle. It is posited that this distortion leads to increased hair fragility, resulting in the short, stubby hair characteristic of affected dogs. Furthermore, it is hypothesized that the breakdown of hair releases toxic by-products from pigment production, which adversely affect the hair follicles, thereby diminishing the regrowth of damaged hairs.
Treatment for CDA
Initially, it is essential to consult your veterinarian, as there may be alternative underlying conditions that present with similar symptoms.
Home treatments
Medicated shampoos, conditioners, sprays, and rinses can help with dry skin, scaling, and infections.
Oral medications: Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drugs can treat infections and inflammation.
Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, and other skin and coat supplements can help keep skin and coat healthy.
Avoid harsh brushes: Avoid damaging brushes when grooming your dog.
Protect from the sun: Use a sunsuit or avoid the sun to prevent sunburn and skin cancer.
Avoid extreme temperatures: Protect your dog from harsh conditions that may aggravate skin issues.
Regular checkups: Schedule regular checkups to monitor your dog's condition and adjust treatment as needed.
Breeding a dog with CDA
1. It is strongly discouraged to breed your male or female dog if you are aware that they suffer from CDA or are carriers of the condition. Engaging in such breeding practices is ethically questionable.
2. Should you proceed with breeding and your dog does not exhibit symptoms of CDA, but its offspring develop signs of the condition between six months and two years of age, it indicates that your dog is a carrier of CDA. In such cases, it is advisable to cease breeding this dog.
3. Some breeders continue to use their stud dogs for breeding despite knowing that these dogs are carriers or affected by CDA. This has been substantiated, and they have also bred their offspring. It is prudent to select a reputable breeder who adheres to ethical breeding practices. Avoid being in a position where you must explain to puppy buyers, six months to two years later, why their puppies are experiencing coat loss and persistent itching or scratching.
4. Conduct thorough research.
5. Engage with the breeder and inquire about the stud dog you intend to use. If the owner of the stud dog cannot provide assurance or evidence that their dog does not carry the CDA gene, it is advisable to refrain from proceeding with the breeding and find a suitable stud.
6. The same principle applies to the stud owner; they should also inquire about your knowledge regarding the gene.
Breeding Blues
When considering breeding a blue female, it is advisable to pair her with a Black, Black brindle, Black blue gene carrier, or a blue dog that possesses at least an 80% black pedigree. This approach significantly mitigates potential risks. Additionally, it is essential to evaluate other factors such as adherence to Breed Standards and the presence of any serious faults in either the female or the chosen stud. A responsible breeder will refrain from breeding their dog if it is known to be a carrier or has the CDA gene.
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